Moving Into A House That Needs Renovation
Are you an ambitious homebuyer looking to purchase a house that needs renovation to increase market value? Whether it’s a fixer-upper or a run-down property, the rewards of transforming an outdated structure into your dream home can be great. But renovating a house also requires significant time and resources.
Here we share some top tips from renovation pros to help you get started on your project.
Start With a Budget for Your Renovation Project
First and foremost, it is important to budget for the entire cost of the renovation project from start to finish. Consider all potential costs, including labour, materials, surprises etc., to ensure that the final price tag fits your budget. It is also wise to save some extra funds in the event of unforeseen expenses or delays.
Set a Timeline for Moving to a New House
From start to finish, plan out a timeline for when each stage of the renovation should be completed. This includes researching materials, getting quotes and permits, and allowing time for construction and final touches. Establishing a timeline will help ensure that the renovation process stays on track and gives you something to work towards. Also, make sure to book the services of a reliable removalist team for cost-effective removals to your new house. Getting all the details ironed out ahead of time with a project manager will help you plan your move more efficiently.
Assess the House’s Conditions
Before investing any money, it’s important to take stock of the house’s condition. Are there major structural repairs that need to be addressed? Are there systems like heating and plumbing that need replacing? Make sure you understand what needs to be done before starting the project, and brace yourself for any unforeseen problems.
Hire Experienced Professionals
Hiring experienced professionals is essential for any successful house renovation project to spruce up your existing space. Do your research and take the time to find reliable tradespeople who can provide quality services at competitive prices. Ask for referrals from friends or family who have recently completed their renovations.
Prioritize Safety in Your Living Space
When undertaking a house renovation project, it is essential to prioritize safety. This means wearing protective clothing and equipment, following guidelines for hazardous materials and ensuring that electricians and plumbers have the necessary qualifications when dealing with gas and electricity.
Stay Organized
Renovating a house can be stressful and overwhelming, so staying organized throughout the project is essential. Keep track of all expenses and take note of any decisions or changes that are made along the way. This will help ensure that you stay on budget and schedule as you transform your house into the home of your dreams.
Invest in Lock-Up Storage
If you are living in the house while it is being renovated, invest in lock-up storage to protect your belongings from dust, dirt and potential theft. This will help keep your home clean and organized throughout the renovation process.
Plan the Interior Design
Before starting any major renovations, plan the interior design of your house and set a renovation budget. This includes deciding on wall and floor colours, furniture layout and future home additions such as built-in bookcases or a swimming pool. This will help you create a cohesive look for your home renovation and ensure all renovations are done with the result in mind.
Expect the Unexpected
It is important to be prepared for the unexpected when renovating a house. Things may not always go according to plan, and there is usually some element of surprise involved in any renovation project. Be flexible and open-minded throughout the process, and remember that while it can sometimes take longer than expected, these surprises can often lead to more rewarding results.
Consult Multiple Contractor Quotes to Save Money
Before making any decisions, consult multiple contractor quotes to ensure you get the best deal. While it can be tempting to go with the lowest quote, consider the quality of service and materials they offer, and this will help you better understand which tradesperson is best suited for your project.
Renovate with the Future in Mind
It is important to think about how your house will look and function in the future when renovating. Consider if any changes you make now will impact any potential renovations down the line, and if so, plan accordingly. This could include designing extra storage space or adding a separate entrance for rental income on your existing property.
Check Building Regulations
Before starting any renovations, ensure you are familiar with your area’s building regulations and requirements. This includes obtaining the necessary permits and following specific safety protocols for electrical wiring or plumbing. Checking these regulations will help ensure that your renovation is safe and compliant with local laws.
By following these tips from renovation professionals, you can get the most out of your house renovation project. You can turn a dated property into your dream home with careful planning and preparation.
Things to Fix Up Before You Move In
When you move into a house that needs renovations, it’s important to assess the home thoroughly before you settle in and make your first payment. You don’t want to rush into a project without considering the cost of repairs or your budget. Here are some areas to feel when moving into a house that needs renovations.
1. Electrical: Check all outlets, switches, and wiring for any apparent damage or deterioration. If you’re uncomfortable performing the inspection yourself, it’s best to hire a professional electrician to come in and assess the home before you move in.
2. Plumbing: Inspect all faucets and pipes for visible signs of leaks or damage. Again, if you’re uncomfortable assessing the home, contact a certified plumber to inspect it before moving in.
3. Structural: Look for cracks in the walls and ceilings, water stains, or any other visible signs that could signal potential structural problems. Make sure to contact a qualified structural engineer to come in and inspect the home before you move in.
4. Heating and Cooling: Check the furnace and air conditioning system for any visible signs of wear or damage and any possible safety hazards. If these systems need replacing, hire an HVAC technician who can assess the situation.
5. Appliances: Check all appliances for proper operation and safety hazards, such as frayed wiring or exposed electrical components. Contact an appliance repair technician if any appliances need to be replaced before you move in.
6. Roofing: Inspect all roof components for visible wear or damage. Make sure to hire a qualified roofer to come in and assess the situation before moving in, as replacing the roof can be costly.
7. Gutters: Look for any visible signs of clogs or damage to the gutters. If you find any clogs, it’s important to hire a professional gutter cleaner who can come in and take care of the problem before you move in.
8. Exterior: Check the exterior walls and foundations for any visible signs of water damage or structural issues. If you find anything that needs repairs, hire a qualified contractor before you move in.
9. Landscaping: Inspect the yard for trees, plants, or shrubs that need to be trimmed, pruned, or removed. Contact a qualified landscaper who can assess the situation and provide a quote before you move in.
10. Flooring: Check all flooring surfaces for visible wear or damage. Contact a qualified flooring contractor if any floors need to be replaced before you move in.
11. Windows: Inspect all windows for any visible signs of damage, such as broken seals or cracked panes. If you find any issues, hire a window repair specialist who can assess the situation and provide a quote before you move in.
12. Pest Control: Check for any visible signs of pests or rodents inside the home. If you find any, contact a qualified pest control service that can assess the situation and provide a quote before you move in.
13. Paint: Check all surfaces for any visible signs of peeling, chipping, or fading paint. If you find any issues, it’s best to hire a professional painter who can assess the situation and provide a quote before you move in.
14. Insulation: Inspect the walls, ceilings, and floors for any visible signs of insufficient insulation. If you find any issues, contact an insulation contractor who can assess the situation and provide a quote before you move in.
15. Cleaning: Ensure the entire home has been thoroughly cleaned before moving in. If necessary, hire a professional cleaning service to come in and take care of the job before you move your belongings into the house.
It’s essential to make sure your new home is safe and up to code before you move in. Taking the time to inspect the house and make necessary repairs properly will help ensure that your family lives in a safe and comfortable environment. With proper planning, you can avoid any potential problems when moving into a house that needs renovations.
